Real Madrid TV raise concerns over choice of referee ahead of Copa del Rey final | OneFootball

With the Copa del Rey final just around the corner, Real Madrid have taken a firm stance, choosing to highlight what they believe to be unfair refereeing history.

Just one day before the big clash against Barcelona, the club’s official channel, Real Madrid TV, released a detailed video that puts the focus squarely on the referee chosen for the match—Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea.

The video, which runs for a little over three minutes, openly questions the referee’s past decisions involving Real Madrid.

Bengoetxea in spotlight

According to the club’s channel, there have been repeated instances where De Burgos Bengoetxea’s judgement appeared to go against Los Blancos.

The clip opens with strong words: “This is what you are going to see. The letter of introduction of Ricardo De Burgos Bengoetxea, the referee designated to officiate the Copa del Rey final between Real Madrid and Barcelona.”

It points out that under his supervision, Real Madrid’s win rate stands at just 64%, while Barcelona have managed an impressive 81% win rate—a significant difference.

The video also highlights that Real Madrid have only won 2 of their last 5 matches with him in charge.

Referee’s record gains in Madrid

Real Madrid TV did not stop at statistics. They also drew attention to the referee’s lack of recognition at the international level.

Despite being listed by UEFA since 2018, De Burgos Bengoetxea has never been selected to officiate a Champions League match.

FIFA, too, has overlooked him for any of their major competitions. Yet, he has been chosen to oversee three finals between Real Madrid and Barcelona, including this upcoming one.

Real Madrid clearly feel that the odds may already be tilted before the game even begins. Their concern is not just about one match, but a broader pattern of calls that seem to disadvantage the club.

By bringing this to light before the final, they are making it known that they expect a fair and balanced performance on the pitch from both teams and the referee.